Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’ve only written one book so far and this was a giant leap for me. Mental clarity is of the utmost importance when writing and if my head is cluttered, I don’t sit at my desk. Not a word is written. It has been a very long journey, getting to this point in my life when writing is actually a realistic option. It took more years than I care to remember, not to mention determination and a lot of faith. There is always a choice, a simple one. Do something to make a dream a reality or do nothing. We all know where the second one leads.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Why Were They Built? Six Man-Made Wonders of the World is a book for younger readers and I wrote it by looking through the lens of my own experiences. In the late 1980s I went on a trip to India, and, among other things, saw the Taj Mahal for the first time. That’s how I got the travel bug. Since then I’ve visited many places, snapped countless pictures and collected memories. I still love to travel because it’s inspiring. With my book I hope to inspire younger people to explore the globe, in the same way I was inspired so many years ago.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Well, I do drink coffee when I write. Caffeine gives a buzz and opens the mind and I brew a fresh cup two or three times a day. I don’t ever write late in the evening so coffee is just a late morning/early afternoon habit.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
It’s hard to pick the books that have influenced me because I’ve read so many. I’ve been reading Stephen King’s books for years and he continues to amaze me with his stories. James Clavell, Amy Tan, Michael Crichton, J.D. Salinger and Rohinton Mistry have also influenced me. In recent months I read two books (Hiroshima and Sandakan, respectively) by Australian writer and historian Paul Ham. I would highly recommend both books to anyone who is interested in World War II history. It’s such an extraordinary period of the 20th century and there’s lots of fascinating stuff to learn.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on another children’s book titled What’s Up There in Outer Space? Planets, Stars and Other Big Stuff. I’d like to write another Why Were They Built book about six more great monuments and the time is right to start writing things down.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I don’t have a best method yet because I’m new to all of this. I’ll come across new and better ways to promote as time goes on and I’m hoping to get tips from other writers.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Take your writing one day at a time and don’t let it override everything else. If your mind is foggy or if you’re distracted, don’t write. Come back later and approach it anew.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
About writing? You can create whatever you want. If it doesn’t work, toss it. About life in general? Life is short and unpredictable. Eat dessert first.
What are you reading now?
No books at the moment. My life has been hectic for a while.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I will continue to get my name out there and try to attract more readers. I’ll write the books I plan to write and set goals, but at the same time I’ll make sure to enjoy life and all the good stuff that comes along.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
I would take The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho, The Far Pavilions by M.M. Kaye, and The Ghost Map by Steven Johnson.
Author Websites and Profiles
Scott Hayden Amazon Profile
Scott Hayden’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
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